Network Engineer jobs in Kitchener, ON

Build the technology that powers discovery. Perimeter Institute is hiring a Technology Specialist II, Support and Infrastructure Operations to deliver secure, reliable, and innovative technology solutions for our world-leading research community. Join a collaborative, mission-driven team where your expertise will enable bold ideas, support breakthroughs, and help shape the future of physics.

In this critical role, you will help keep our data centre and core IT infrastructure secure, reliable, and running smoothly. Working closely with the Technology Services team, you will improve systems and deliver practical, high-quality technology solutions that support Perimeter’s academic, scientific, and administrative community.

Key Responsibilities

Data Center and Hardware Operations

• Perform daily data center operations, including configuration, capacity, environmental, maintenance, and physical security checks.
• Rack, stack, and cable server, storage, and network hardware in accordance with data centre standards.
• Install, configure, and maintain server and network equipment.
• Perform operating system, firmware, and security patch management activities, using automation tools to improve consistency and efficiency.
• Monitor and maintain infrastructure health using enterprise monitoring tools and respond to alerts.
• Support and troubleshoot the infrastructure related to Perimeter’s HPC cluster.

Storage, Backup and Disaster Recovery

• Administer backup, recovery, and data protection operations.
• Management of storage infrastructure, including provisioning, performance monitoring, lifecycle management, and capacity planning.
• Conduct backup verification and recovery testing to ensure data integrity and availability.
• Support disaster recovery planning, testing, documentation, and execution to protect business continuity.

Networking, Firewall and Telephony

• Configure and maintain wired and wireless network infrastructure.
• Administer network security technologies, including firewalls, VPNs, network access controls, and endpoint security solutions.
• Support telephony and unified communications infrastructure.
• Troubleshoot network connectivity, performance, and security issues.
• Implement and maintain security controls, network configuration, and access control configurations across physical and virtual environments.

Virtualization

• Administer virtualization platforms, including host lifecycle management, virtual machine provisioning, performance optimization, and capacity planning.
• Support and maintain cloud infrastructure and services including monitoring, administration, and operational support.
• Assist with infrastructure modernization initiatives involving hybrid and cloud technologies.

End-User Support and Operations

• Provide L2/L3 support for complex issues involving infrastructure, endpoint devices, productivity tools, and software, and recommend appropriate endpoint hardware solutions.
• Improve operational processes through automation, service standardization, and secure configuration of operating systems, servers, and network infrastructure.
• Create and maintain system, operational, knowledgebase, and end-user documentation.
• Provide technical input to technology reviews and procurement processes.
• Participate in the Technology Services on-call rotation.
• Perform other duties related to the role, as required.

Competency and Experience Requirements

• Completed post-secondary education in information technology or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 1-3 years of experience working with enterprise infrastructure operations or systems administration, network administration.
• Demonstrated knowledge of Linux, MacOS, and Windows Server, including installation, configuration, maintenance, troubleshooting, and patch management.
• Strong scripting and automation skills via PowerShell, Bash, Python, etc.
• Intermediate knowledge of networking hardware, including switches and wireless access points, with experience installing and configuring complex network hardware and software. Understanding firewalls and VPN or ZTNA solutions.
• Experience administering virtualization platforms (VMware or Hyper-V), cloud services (Azure), enterprise storage (NetApp) and backup and recovery products.
• Experience using Ansible or similar solutions for automation and configuration management.
• Solid understanding of data center best practices, including power, cooling, and rack/cable management and standards.
• Basic knowledge of cybersecurity principles and best practices (vulnerability management, system hardening, least-privilege access, endpoint security).
• Familiarity with AI technologies and their application to infrastructure automation and systems management.
• Ability to produce professional architecture, network diagrams, and other technical documentation.
• Strong understanding of ITIL foundations and best practices.
• Excellent verbal and written communications skills, with the ability to convey technical information to non-technical individuals.
• Strong organizational skills, accuracy, attention to detail, and problem-solving / troubleshooting skills.
• Ability to work in, and adapt to, a rapidly changing and highly technical environment.
• Relevant certifications—such as CompTIA Network+ or Server+, VMware VCP, Fortinet NSE, Microsoft Azure Administrator, or equivalent credentials—are considered an asset.

Please submit your resume and expression of interest by November 13, 2026, to ensure full consideration of your application. The posting will remain live until the position is filled. We appreciate your interest in supporting Perimeter Institute’s mission. While we thank all applicants, only select individuals will be contacted.

Location: Waterloo, ON

Work Arrangement: Onsite, aligned with operational needs.

Hours Per Week: 37.5

Employment Term: Full-Time Permanent

Position Start Date: December 1, 2026

Position Reports To: Associate Director, Infrastructure and Support Services

The starting annual salary range for this position is $66,200 to $71,000 CAD. Salary will increase over time based on performance, experience, and contributions to the organization. Perimeter’s compensation approach is designed to promote fairness and transparency, ensuring alignment with internal equity and external market benchmarks.

We are committed to creating an exceptional workplace where innovation, growth, and well-being thrive.

Here’s how we do it:

Flexible Work Environment: We support work-life balance through flexibility where operational requirements allow.

Comprehensive Health and Dental Benefits: Your well-being matters to us. We provide extended health benefits that support you and your family in maintaining a healthy and balanced life.

Employer-Matched Pension Plan: We invest in your future by offering an employer-matched pension plan, ensuring financial security for the years to come.

Generous Time-Off Policy: We provide ample vacation, personal time, and other leave options so you can recharge and focus on what matters most.

Personal and Professional Development: We support your growth with dedicated funding for training, certifications, and professional development tailored to your goals.

Dynamic, One-of-a-Kind Facility: Work in a cutting-edge facility unique to Canada, designed to produce scientific breakthroughs by fostering collaboration, creativity, and a vibrant workplace culture.

If you're looking for a place where your contributions are valued, your development is supported, and your work environment inspires you, Perimeter is the place for you.

Perimeter Institute is committed to diversity within its community and especially welcomes applications from racialized persons, women, Indigenous/Aboriginal People of North America, persons with disabilities, LGBTQ2S+ persons, and others who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas.

Perimeter Institute provides accommodations throughout the application and interview process for applicants with disabilities. Please contact accessibility@perimeterinstitute.ca to discuss your needs and arrange appropriate support.